Not a Role Model

A lot of famous people don't ask to be role models, and some have even made it very clear that they don't want to be. But because they are famous, people constantly watch their lives and look to them. It can probably be difficult for them. But LeBron James loves the limelight—that became more apparent last night. But his arrogance went to a new level. 

I often check ESPN and was growing very tired of the ceaseless talk about where LeBron James will end up. But it wasn't until Thursday morning when I kept hearing that sources leaked he would be going to the Heat and announce it on an hour-long special that night that I truly just wished it would all be over. Then it actually happened. He announced he was going to the Miami Heat. I didn't watch it because I wanted to play tennis (or do many other countless things rather than watch the hour long show.) Instead of quietly stepping out of Cleveland he put the spotlight on himself to the world he was leaving his old team behind. He has the right to do that, but it's the way he did it that bothered me.

I, along with many others, probably made LeBron James into who we wanted him to be. Last night he showed us a more self-centered side. Sentiments like mine can be found all over the web (here and here)—and not just from those from Ohio. I hope I'll be able to help my kids find good role models. It's not impossible for sports figures to be role models either (Edgar Martinez or Dan Wilson come to mind). But yesterday was just a reminder that they shouldn't be looked to just because they are good at sports.